Topics discussed included continued protection and reform of the Affordable Care Act, the importance of educating consumers about coverage options and special enrollment period guidelines, and approaches and policies to eradicate the maternal mortality crisis impacting Black women. The event was coordinated by BWHI’s Chief Policy Officer, Tammy Boyd, and the organization’s 2019 Health Policy Agenda for Black Womenwas the driver of the dialogue. The Agenda provides policy recommendations about these pressing issues and many others, including reproductive health and justice, mental health, HIV/AIDS, breast, cervical, lung and colorectal cancer, cardiovascular disease, hypertension and diabetes.

Representative Robin Kelly (D-IL) provides guests with an update about health-focused legislation, including the passing of the Action for Dental Health Act, which she introduced.

Representative Lauren Underwood (D-IL) provides remarks about her history with the Black Women’s Health Imperative, and the need for continued protection of the Affordable Care Act.Marilyn Yager, Senior Policy Advisor at Alston & Bird, welcomes guests to the event.